So, yeah, many of the 2018 Cardinals are inexperienced major leaguers, but they’ve experienced high-pressured winning —and not just since manager Mike Shildt took over in July.
In the Busch Stadium dugout Wednesday, before the Cards’ toe-stub against Pittsburgh, the skipper was asked for qualities that define his team. He spoke of consistency, preparation and relentlessness. Asked if these were contagious, Shildt suggested a stronger word: “It’s a standard, really, that they hold themselves to.”
“We’re going to have to come out ready because these guys are hungry for that spot, too,” shortstop Paul DeJong said of the Dodgers, the defending National League champs, who have 11 active players who have been All-Stars.